Middle School Research Articles

Developing an adaptive professional learning model: educator insights on their infrastructure needs

ABSTRACT Each year, teachers are introduced to new initiatives and innovations, which can be overwhelming, especially when support mechanisms are not thoughtfully planned and implemented. This article explores a new technology-based tool to support school teams launching new initiatives. The study focused on a progress monitoring tool to inform writing instruction. Researchers aimed to determine tool feasibility and learn about participants’ experiences with their school’s readiness for a new writing initiative. Two teams of six to eight educators at two Midwest US middle schools participated in simulated implementation team meetings. Simulation-based research was the investigative methodology, and meeting transcripts were analyzed using deductive coding and thematic analysis with modified constant comparison procedures. Other sources of data were surveys and an observation protocol. Findings explore intersections of professional development, instructional coaching, and instructional practices, and each system’s resources, personnel, and processes for implementation. Implications for future tool research and applications are discussed.

Witnessing community violence and its consequences: Changes across middle school.

Community violence exposure is prevalent among youth in economically marginalized communities and has been associated with concurrent adverse consequences. Few studies have applied a developmental psychopathology framework to examine developmental processes that account for relations between witnessing community violence and adjustment over time. This study used latent curve models to examine associations between changes across middle school in witnessing community violence frequency and changes in distress and aggression. Data were collected in four waves during each grade of middle school. Participants were 1323 students (54.3% female, 17.5% Latine, 88.3% African American/Black) attending middle schools in neighborhoods with high violence rates. A piecewise latent curve model indicated that the frequency of witnessing community violence decreased during middle school, with the steepest decline during the 6th grade and significant decreases in frequency during the summer. Initial witnessing violence frequency was positively correlated with baseline distress and aggression, and changes in witnessing violence were positively correlated with changes in distress and aggression during some grades. Implications for interventions and theory are discussed.

Multiple and frequent tobacco product use by sexual minority youth in the United States: Results from the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey.

Multiple and frequent tobacco product use by sexual minority youth in the United States: Results from the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey.

Relationships between critical thinking dispositions and evaluation of videos with variation in the level of expertise of the source among middle and high school students

Relationships between critical thinking dispositions and evaluation of videos with variation in the level of expertise of the source among middle and high school students

What factors affect student procrastination on mathematics homework: Self-determination theory perspective.

What factors affect student procrastination on mathematics homework: Self-determination theory perspective.

Efficacy of the Mexican version of the keepin' it REAL school-based prevention program in addressing multi-substance use from early to mid-adolescence.

Efficacy of the Mexican version of the keepin' it REAL school-based prevention program in addressing multi-substance use from early to mid-adolescence.

Air purifiers in classrooms: Effect on air quality, thermal comfort, lung function, and academic performance in a pragmatic controlled trial with counterbalanced crossover interventions.

Air purifiers in classrooms: Effect on air quality, thermal comfort, lung function, and academic performance in a pragmatic controlled trial with counterbalanced crossover interventions.

Relationship between cumulative peer risk and sense of security among adolescents: a moderated mediation model

Adolescents’ sense of security is closely related to their ecological background. Previous studies have shown that single or minority risk factors in peer risk are crucial in adolescents’ sense of security. Nevertheless, research into the collective influence of peer-related risk factors on a the sense of security among adolescents is scarce. Furthermore, the moderated mediation processes between cumulative peer risk and a sense of security in adolescents are poorly understood. Therefore, using a cumulative risk model, the present study examined the impact of cumulative peer risk on adolescents’ sense of security. Furthermore, based on self-system theory and stress-buffering theory, we examined whether self-efficacy mediated the relationship between cumulative peer risk and adolescents’ sense of security and whether perceived social support moderated the adverse effect of cumulative peer risk on adolescents’ sense of security. A total of 3037 adolescents (mean age = 14.98 years, SD = 1.72) from three middle schools and two high schools in Henan province, China participated in this study. They completed a set of surveys evaluating demographic characteristics, peer-related risk factors (including peer rejection, peer alienation, peer acceptance, and peer support), self-efficacy, perceived social support, and adolescents’ sense of security. Mediation analysis indicated that (a) cumulative peer risk significantly negatively predicted adolescents’ sense of security; (b) cumulative peer risk significantly negatively predicted self-efficacy, which in turn reduced adolescents’ sense of security; and moderated mediation analysis further demonstrated (c) That the first and second half of the mediation path were moderated differently by perceived social support. High perceived social support could enhance the positive effect of self-efficacy on adolescents’ sense of security, but the protective role of perceived social support in adolescents’ sense of security is limited, especially when adolescents are exposed to high cumulative peer risk. Taken together, the present study is the first to demonstrate the detrimental impact of cumulative peer risk on adolescents’ sense of security, as well as the mediating role of self-efficacy and the moderating role of perceived social support. In addition, we discussed the implications of our findings on improving adolescents’ sense of security.

Chain-mediation effect of cognitive flexibility and depression on the relationship between physical activity and insomnia in adolescents

BackgroundPhysical activity has positive benefits in promoting the physical and mental health of adolescents. This study focuses on the importance of adolescent mental health issues, exploring the relationship between physical activity and insomnia in adolescents, as well as the mediating roles and pathways of cognitive flexibility and depression.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted using self-reports to collect data on physical activity, insomnia, cognitive flexibility, and depression. A total of 501 valid questionnaires were collected from two middle schools in the western region of Hunan Province.ResultsPhysical activity directly and significantly predicted insomnia negatively (β =−0.153, SE = 0.047, p < 0.01). However, the predictive effect of physical activity on insomnia was no longer significant in the indirect effect analysis (β =−0.053, SE = 0.041, p > 0.05). Serial mediation analyses identified significant indirect effects through cognitive flexibility and depression in sequence (β =−0.029, 95% CI [−0.053,−0.011]), accounting for 18.95% of the total effect.ConclusionsThe study strengthens evidence for the associations between adolescent physical activity, insomnia, cognitive flexibility and depression, demonstrating that the beneficial effects of physical activity on insomnia are sequentially mediated through cognitive flexibility and depression. Given the dual benefits of physical activity for both sleep quality and mental health, we recommend implementing targeted physical activity interventions for adolescents, with particular emphasis on activities designed to enhance cognitive flexibility.

Middle school students' views on Mathematical situations designed with Scratch

This research investigates the impact of mathematical problems created with Scratch on the problem-solving skills of 8th-grade middle school students. The research was based on the descriptive design of mixed research approaches. In this direction, the research model was single-group pretest-posttest design, which is a weak experimental design from experimental designs. Qualitative data were collected using the interview technique to complete the experimental design for the research. The participants were eight students studying in the 8th grade at Vocational Religious School at 2022-2023 academic year in central Anatolia, Turkey. Coding activities created with the Scratch program, developed by the researcher and containing mathematical situations, were carried out with the students. At the end of the activities, the data obtained from semi-structured interviews with 6 volunteer students were analyzed using the descriptive analysis technique. The mathematical algorithms designed with Scratch developed positive attitudes in students. The majority of the students did not experience any difficulties. Recommendations were made regarding the necessity of a strategic focus on the integration of computational thinking into the current curriculum in primary and middle school education and the evaluation of its effects on achievement.

Partnering with local industries to drive STEM engagement

This paper explores the integration of local industry partnerships to enhance STEM education in rural middle schools through renewable energy education. By collaborating with a regional solar grid and battery storage company, students engaged in hands-on lessons using Snap Circuits® kits to explore electricity, solar power, and energy grid design. Students designed and connected solar-powered model homes to simulate a solar grid network. These activities fostered critical thinking, systems thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, making STEM careers tangible and accessible. This study highlights the importance of leveraging local industries to create authentic, place-based STEM experiences that foster career awareness, deepen understanding, and enhance student engagement.

A Pilot Study on the Effects of Volleyball Specialised Physical Education on Cardiovascular Endurance in Female Middle School Students

The last few years have seen widespread concern regarding declining physical fitness in adolescents and cardiovascular endurance as an essential component of overall physical fitness. This research examined the effect of volleyball-specific Physical Education (SPE) on cardiovascular endurance in female middle school adolescents. Methodology: This research utilised a cluster randomised controlled trial (CRCT) approach. A cluster of 10 secondary school girls aged 13-15 years were given participation in the pre-test (baseline) and post-test measurements. The volleyball-SPE intervention was for two weeks. Cardiovascular endurance was evaluated before (baseline) and after the intervention, using spirometry and an 800m run as the primary assessment tools. Participants were randomly allocated to either the experimental group (EG) volleyball-SPE or the control group (CG) standard physical education (STPE). Data were analysed using a generalised estimating equations (GEE) model to assess changes in cardiovascular endurance within and between the groups over time. The results of the GEE analysis indicated that the interaction effects between time and group were not statistically significant for either spirometry (&amp;chi;&amp;sup2; = 0.123, p = 0.726) or the 800m run (&amp;chi;&amp;sup2; = 0.086, p = 0.770). However, the main effects of time were statistically significant for both spirometry (&amp;chi;&amp;sup2; = 78.554, p &amp;lt; .001) and the 800m run (&amp;chi;&amp;sup2; = 6.494, p = 0.011), suggesting an overall improvement in cardiovascular endurance following the intervention. Although the EG improved after the intervention, the change trend was not significantly different from the CG&amp;#39;s. &amp;nbsp;These results imply that while a brief volleyball-SPE intervention may yield specific enhancements in physical fitness, obtaining statistically meaningful differences between experimental and control groups may necessitate refinements in the length of the intervention and the intensity of the training. Despite the limitations, this current research offers initial empirically based information on the viability of incorporating brief volleyball-SPE lessons in middle schools with limited instructional time. Additionally, the outcome provides a theoretical rationale for developing systematic physical education programs to build cardiovascular endurance in middle school students.

Don’t Fear the Big Words

Literacy can have a major impact on comprehension of vocabulary rich content specific areas, such as science. Understanding the vocabulary rich science terminology introduced during the Middle School Years can support conceptual understanding of science and by extension students’ future academic pathways. In our action research project, we worked with a grade eight science teacher along with 75 students to design and test two units of work (Cell and Microscope) when taught using an integrated literacy approach founded upon the inclusion of morphological awareness and the Greek and Latin etymology of scientific vocabulary. Though our quantitative results showed there was little to no difference in students’ unit knowledge or vocabulary scores through the use of this adapted teaching model, the qualitative results provided enough strength for the partner teacher to adopt the integrated approach in all of her future teaching of vocabulary. The teacher noted the new method was particularly useful for engagement of habitual non- participators, and those more reluctant to take risks in the classroom. Therefore, while the new instructional method did not show an immediate increase in test scores, qualitative findings provided strong support that it is critical to deconstructing barriers for learners.

Assessing the Feasibility, Effectiveness, and Acceptability of a Multicomponent Mental Health and Wellbeing Prevention Program Adapted for Youth

The mental health needs of youth are increasingly urgent, necessitating effective interventions. This study used survey methods to evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness, and acceptability of Thrive, a multicomponent program designed to promote mental health and wellbeing. The program, which was delivered over six weeks via Zoom, was adapted for youth and integrates elements of positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness (Heintzelman et al., 2020). A total of 677 middle and high school students in the United States participated in the study. Moderate attrition was observed, with 75% of participants who attended the program completing five or six sessions. Completion rates were higher for white and middle and junior high students than for nonwhite and high school students. Acceptability was high with participants reporting a positive experience, citing supportive facilitators, engaging content, and a sense of community as key strengths. In terms of effectiveness, results showed significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as improvements in quality of life from pre-test to post-test. Notably, students of color experienced a greater reduction in anxiety compared to white, non-Latino students. Suggestions for program enhancement included adjustments to scheduling and logistics and incorporating a greater variety of activities to enhance engagement. The findings underscore the promise of Thrive as a scalable intervention while highlighting areas for further refinement.

Development of an Age-Appropriate Household Dysfunction Measure and its Concurrent Validity With Multiple Outcomes Among Middle School Adolescents in Southeast Texas.

Existing adverse childhood experience (ACE) measures include a limited number of household dysfunction (HD) items and the use of adult-oriented language that is not always appropriate for middle schoolers. We developed an age-appropriate 10-item HD measure informed by previously validated ACE measures and tested its concurrent validity with dating violence (DV) perpetration, lifetime substance use, and mental health outcomes among middle schoolers in Southeast Texas. This cross-sectional study used the baseline data from a DV prevention intervention program for sixth graders (N = 126), Me & You Tech. Baseline data were collected from March 2023 to April 2023. To test the concurrent validity of the newly developed HD measure, we conducted a series of multivariable regression models regarding the association between HD and the six key outcomes while controlling for covariates. The most common type of HD exposure was parental separation/divorce (33.3%). We found significant associations between HD and physical (AOR = 1.45; 95% CI [1.00, 2.10]) and psychological DV perpetration (AOR = 1.75; 95% CI [1.20, 2.56]). For each additional reported HD exposure, there were 61% higher odds for adolescents to engage in lifetime alcohol use (AOR = 1.61; 95% CI [1.11, 2.34]). Finally, we found significant associations between HD and depression (β = 1.34; 95% CI [0.57, 2.12]) and HD and anxiety (β = 1.28; 95% CI [0.52, 2.03]). Our findings suggest the HD measure is pragmatic and has strong evidence of concurrent validity. This measure may be a helpful tool in assessing HD among middle school-aged adolescents, both in school and clinic settings.

Time-Specific Predictors of E-Cigarette and Cigarette Use Trajectory Classes From Preadolescence to Late Adolescence (2013-2020) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study.

Time-Specific Predictors of E-Cigarette and Cigarette Use Trajectory Classes From Preadolescence to Late Adolescence (2013-2020) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study.

تطبيق الطريقة للعبة الهمسية المتسلسلية لتحْسين مَهَارَةِ اَلاِسْتِمَاعِ في اَلْمَدْرَسَةِ المتوسطة مفتاح الجنة بروبولنجو

Listening is one of the essential skills in learning the Arabic language, as it contributes to the development of speaking, reading and writing skills. It is defined as the ability to understand the information and intentions of spoken language in different situations. This research aims to clarify the impact of the application of the sequential whispering game in improving the listening skill of the students of Miftah Al-Jana Islamic Middle School in Probolinggo. This game is considered an interactive educational tool that creates a fun atmosphere in the classroom. The research relied on the descriptive qualitative method, through observation, interview, and documentation. The results showed that this method contributes to raising the students’ concentration and increasing their interaction, and a clear improvement in their ability to understand the information heard in Arabic was observed. Accordingly, the chain whisper game can be considered an effective method that helps develop listening skills in a fun and effective way.

Uncovering the effectiveness of utility value intervention in enhancing middle school students’ personal interest and utility value in science

Abstract This study investigated the impact of utility value intervention on middle school students' personal interest and utility value in science. Using a quasi-experimental design, 95 seventh-grade students were divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group received curriculum-oriented instruction supported by utility value intervention, while the control group received curriculum-oriented instruction alone. Both groups were assessed using pre- and post-tests. Although the utility value intervention did not significantly impact these variables, the findings revealed a significant decrease in interest and utility value when classes were taught only with curriculum-oriented instruction. However, students' existing personal interest and utility value in science was maintained when utility value intervention supported the instruction. Qualitative data indicated that experimental group students found the content more relevant and attributed their increased interest to the intervention. Both control and experimental group students believed that activity-enriched science instruction could boost their interest. Additionally, concerning students’ articulated utility values, results revealed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups, favoring the experimental group. These findings suggest that while the utility value intervention did not significantly influence personal interest or task value beliefs in short term, it has potential to make science content more engaging and relevant.

Estimation and Correlation of Student Maturity with Social Attributes Using Large Language Models and Transformers

Positive academic growth is foundational for a child's well-being and future success. While most children exhibit strong indicators of flourishing, early identification of potential challenges can significantly impact their development. This study utilizes AI-powered natural language processing techniques to assess a child's academic developmental progress based on classwork and conversational data. Analyzing homework samples from elementary and middle school students in the Capistrano Unified School District, we fine-tuned large language models to classify conversations by grade level. This classification identifies potential discrepancies between a child's developmental stage and conversational maturity. We found interesting correlations between social parameters like native languages, family income, race, number of siblings, and pets. Furthermore, we explored the potential of AI-driven interventions. Feedback from a system developed using Large Language Models helped students retain vocabulary and grammatical accuracy.

A creative geometric investigation in Middle School: the case of quadrilaterals

The research aimed to analyze the mathematical creativity of students in Middle School in the production of different quadrilaterals in 3×3 grids, considering the fluency, flexibility and originality of the answers. Characterized as a qualitative approach research, it was observed that, in the answers of 12 students, although some showed the ability to generate varied solutions, there were difficulties in recognizing and using geometric transformations, such as rotations, reflections and translations. These results reveal the need for methodologies that encourage creativity and geometric thinking, for a deeper and more versatile learning. The research contributes to the debate on creativity in school Mathematics, fostering pedagogical practices that promote autonomy and critical thinking in the development of geometric skills and problem solving.